Making the Team

Erik Soderborg

Conversations for high school basketball players and parents around the realities of what it takes to make a varsity basketball team. We interview coaches, players, and referees to give you an inside look behind the curtains of high school basketball.

  1. 17 MAR

    Inside Lone Peak High School Basketball: Coach Izzy Ingle

    🏀 Go inside Lone Peak High School Basketball with Head Coach Izzy Ingle as he shares his coaching philosophy, team-building strategies, and what it takes to develop championship-level players. In this interview, Coach Ingle breaks down his approach to creating winning basketball programs, developing player talent, and building the team culture that makes Lone Peak Basketball one of the premier high school programs. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Introduction: Meet Coach Izzy Ingle 0:16 - Winn Leprechaun 0:43 - Suit Coat Relationship 2:40 - Building a Program at a New School 4:33 - Balancing Opinions 6:18 - Core Principles 7:31 - What Makes Great Players? 9:19 - Balancing Accountability and Friendship 10:50 - Offensive Philosophy 13:30 - Defining Good Shots vs Bad Shots 14:26 - Tryouts 17:20 - Building a Winning Team 19:10 - Skill Work vs Team Concepts 20:31 - Coachisms 21:18 - Deciding on Plays 22:36 - Relationship with Officials 24:16 - Technical Philosophies 25:42 - Building Trust Quickly 27:26 - Proud of Players This Year 29:10 - Separating Record from Self Worth 30:55 - Advice to New Coaches 32:21 - Picking a Staff of Assistants 34:04 - Coaching Tree 36:26 - Life Outside Basketball 37:43 - Building the Youth Program 39:35 - Quick, Light Questions 42:21 - Expectations for Youth and Parents 44:07 - Most Excited for This Team 🎯 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: ✅ Coach Ingle's approach to building championship teams ✅ How to develop individual players within a team system ✅ Strategies for creating strong team culture ✅ Leadership principles that translate beyond basketball ✅ What it takes to compete at the highest high school level ✅ How Lone Peak Basketball prepares athletes for the next level ✅ Coaching insights applicable to any competitive program 👨‍🏫 ABOUT COACH IZZY INGLE: In his first year as Head Coach of Lone Peak High School Basketball, Coach Ingle has built a reputation for developing talent, fostering team-first mentality, and creating a winning culture. His approach emphasizes character development, work ethic, and basketball IQ alongside skill development. 📊 WHO THIS VIDEO IS FOR: ✓ Lone Peak High School Basketball fans and supporters ✓ High school basketball players looking to improve ✓ Aspiring basketball coaches at any level ✓ Parents of student-athletes ✓ Basketball enthusiasts interested in program development ✓ Athletes wanting to learn about team culture and leadership ✓ Coaches seeking new strategies and perspectives 🔔 SUBSCRIBE to Making the Team for exclusive interviews with coaches, athletes, and sports professionals sharing the strategies, mindsets, and philosophies that lead to success in competitive sports. 💬 QUESTIONS FOR YOU:What's the most important quality in a great basketball coach? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 🏀 CONNECT WITH COACH INGLE: https://www.instagram.com/izzyingle/ 🏀 CONNECT WITH LONE PEAK BASKETBALL: https://www.instagram.com/lphsbasketball/ #LonePeakBasketball #CoachIzzyIngle #HighSchoolBasketball #BasketballCoaching #MakingTheTeam #PlayerDevelopment #TeamCulture #BasketballStrategy #CoachingPhilosophy #UtahBasketball #ChampionshipMindset #BasketballLeadership--- 👍 LIKE if you enjoyed this coaching insight! 🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more exclusive interviews! 📢 SHARE with coaches, players, and basketball fans! 💬 COMMENT what coaching topic you want us to cover next! © Making the Team | Bringing you inside stories from coaches and athletes who are building winning programs

    45 min
  2. 16 MAR

    How to Actually Train a High School Basketball Player (Legendary Coach Explains)

    What does it actually take to train and develop great basketball players? In this episode of Making the Team, we sit down with legendary performance coach Bob Medina to talk about the science and philosophy behind training basketball players — especially at the high school level. Coach Medina shares decades of experience developing athletes and explains what most players, parents, and even coaches misunderstand about basketball training. From strength and conditioning to skill development, mindset, and long-term athlete growth, this conversation dives into the real process behind building elite players.If you're a high school basketball player, a parent supporting a young athlete, or a coach trying to develop your program, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of how great players are built. In this conversation we discuss: • The right way to train high school basketball players • Common mistakes in youth and high school basketball development• Strength training vs skill development• How to build athleticism for basketball • The role of mindset and discipline in player development • What separates good players from great ones Subscribe to Making the Team for interviews with players, coaches, and experts about what it really takes to succeed in basketball. Time Codes: 0:00 Teaser 0:34 Intro 1:02 Biggest Training Myth 3:04 What Age to Start Strength Training 8:02 Training for Different Body Types 13:31 Loyalties Switching Programs 15:18 Differences Between Athletes 16:58 Where to Start Without Experience 22:37 The Diet Side 25:42 Rest Requirements 27:22 Stretching 32:52 Bob's Conditioning Test 43:27 Coming off the Bench Ready 46:10 Am I Over-conditioning? 54:24 Importance of Sleep 1:00:13 Fighting for Scholarships 1:09:12 Injury Prevention 1:14:15 Questions from the Internet 1:21:56 Realities of NBA Schedules 1:31:04 What A Strength Training Coach Cost? 1:37:03 Real Coaching #makingtheteam #basketball #basketballcoach #strengthtraining

    1hr 43min
  3. 19 FEB

    Joel Gardner Interview - Skyridge Senior Point Guard

    In this episode of Making the Team, we sit down with Joel Gardner, senior point guard for Skyridge Falcons, to talk about the real experience of being a high school varsity basketball player. Joel shares what people don’t always see—early mornings, pressure to perform, balancing school with basketball, leadership expectations, and the mental grind that comes with playing at a high level. We dive into what it’s like running the offense as a senior point guard, earning trust from coaches and teammates, and navigating the ups and downs of a competitive high school basketball season. This conversation is a must-watch for high school basketball players, parents, and coaches who want an honest look at varsity basketball beyond highlights and box scores. Whether you’re trying to make the team, earn minutes, or understand the demands of high school hoops, this episode delivers real perspective from someone living it. Topics Covered: • Life as a varsity high school basketball player • Leadership as a senior point guard • Handling pressure, expectations, and adversity • Balancing academics, training, and competition • What it really takes to compete at a high level Subscribe to Making the Team for real conversations with players and coaches about growth, mindset, and the journey of basketball. Be sure to check follow the Skyridge Falcons Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/skyridgebball/ Please consider following us on social: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/ https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team Chapters: 0:00 Intro 0:16 Joel's love for basketball 0:40 Behind the Scenes of Varsity basketball 2:50 Father/Son and Coach/Player Relationship 4:35 Preparing for Games 5:28 Joel's Tenacity 6:21 What it takes to win 6:52 What Pressure feels like 7:35 Favorite Play 8:26 Bantam vs AAU ball 9:16 Holding team accountable 9:54 Coachisms 10:35 Game Day Traditions 11:30 Conditioning 12:52 Favorite Basketball Shoe 13:30 Life Outside Basketball 14:35 Ideal Future 15:09 Questions from Instagram 19:26 Play calls vs free play 20:22 Senior Realizations #basketball #joelgardner #skyridge

    22 min
  4. 28 JAN

    Coach Jeff Gardner - Skyridge High School

    Jeff Gardner is the head coach of the Skyridge Falcons in Lehi, Utah. He won 2 state championships as a player and has been to the state championship game multiple times as a coach. His teams are known for their aggressive, fast-paced play and disciplined approach. He shares his thoughts on building teams, preparing the youth, and fun coaching stories including the real story behind the 2013 Brighton vs Lone Peak "stall" game. Coach Gardner is extremely well-respected in the basketball community, and we are fortunate to visit with him. 🎙 Whether you’re a coach, player, or just love the game — this conversation is full of wisdom, stories, and Utah basketball history. Be sure to check follow the Skyridge Falcons Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/skyridgebball/ Please consider following us on social: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/ https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team Chapters: 0:00 Intro 0:30 Coach's Love for Basketball 2:32 Balance of Structure and Freedom 5:03 Coaching Unselfishness 6:36 Getting Players to Play Hard 8:40 Structuring Practice 10:46 Scouting Opponents 15:46 What it Takes to Win 18:04 2013 Brighton vs Lone Peak Stall Game 24:26 Coachisms 26:42 Bringing up the Youth 29:14 Preparing for Skyridge Tryouts 30:41 Multi-Sport Athletes 32:48 Conditioning Players 35:04 Advice for Parents 40:15 Father/Son - Coach/Player Relationship 43:33 Game Day Traditions 44:28 Questions from the Internet 44:38 Fastest Technical 45:00 Advice to Coaches 48:23 Biggest Trash Talker 48:36 1v1 Tournament 49:26 Technicals in Career 50:10 Relationship with Officials 51:13 Best Players he's Coached 53:01 Coach's GOAT 53:19 Back In Time Approach to High School Basketball #basketball #jeffgardner #skyridge

    56 min
  5. 06/12/2025

    Coach Andrew May is Building a National JUCO Powerhouse & His Advice for High School Players

    What does it take to make a Junior College basketball team? In this episode of Making the Team, I sit down with Coach Andrew May, head coach of the powerhouse Snow College Men’s Basketball program. After finishing last season as the #1 ranked JUCO team in the nation and currently sitting at #4, Coach May shares exactly what it takes to succeed at the JUCO level — on and off the court. 🏀 Topics we cover include: How to stand out and make a JUCO roster The differences between JUCO and 4-year programs The raw reality of junior college basketball Building a winning culture at Snow College Advice for high school players, parents, and coaches Whether you're a student-athlete, a parent, or a coach, this conversation offers a rare look into the mindset, structure, and recruiting expectations at the JUCO level — from one of the best in the country. Be sure to check follow the Snow College Basketball Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/snowcollegemensbasketball/ Please consider following us on social: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/ https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team ⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ 0:00 Intro 0:38 Reality of JUCO Ball 5:17 Importance of Academics 7:31 Winning and Recruiting 11:40 Player Development 14:50 Structuring Effective Practices 20:02 Recruiting: Players Who Stand Out 28:47 Physical Conditioning Expectations 30:44 Recruiting: Snow's Appeal to Players 36:00 Recruiting Process 40:10 Persuasion vs Manipulation 42:08 Player Roles 45:00 Parent Roles in College 46:21 A Player's Daily Schedule 50:41 Game Day & Travel 53:52 Crazy Manager Stories 56:40 Jimmermania 59:22 Living up to Expectations 1:03:28 After a Win/After a Loss 1:06:35 Process over Outcome 1:08:04 Best Part of Coaching 1:09:33 Hardest Part of Coaching 1:13:50 A Coach's Control Mid Game 1:16:30 Passions Outside Basketball 1:17:51 Instagram Question 1:21:14 Gift of Communication 1:22:36 Electrifying Moments 1:26:31 GOAT & Mt. Rushmore 1:26:51 Advice for High School Senior

    1hr 29min
  6. 05/12/2025

    The Realities of Coaching a 1A School – Coach Connor Patten - Tintic High School

    In this episode of Making the Team, Erik Soderborg sits down with Connor Patten, head basketball coach at Tintic High School, a small-town program in Eureka, Utah. Tintic is a 1A school - the smallest classification of high schools in the state. Coach Patten opens up about what it’s really like to lead a basketball team in a community where every player matters, every season is personal, and resources are limited — but passion runs deep. 🎙 Topics include: Coaching challenges at a small high school How to build a strong team culture with a small roster Balancing mentorship, leadership, and development The emotional highs and lows of rural coaching Why small schools still matter in the world of high school sports If you’re a coach, player, or sports fan who believes in the power of heart over hype, this conversation will inspire and motivate you. 👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews from Making the Team – where we highlight athletes and coaches shaping the game from the ground up. Be sure to follow Coach Patten's journey on his Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/coach.patten/ Follow Tintic basketball here: https://www.instagram.com/thsbbasketball/ Please consider following us on social: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/ https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team ⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ 0:00 Intro Teaser 0:20 1A Realities 2:38 What Tryouts Are Like 3:59 Player Development 5:47 Youth Development Pre High School 8:30 Hopes and Dreams of 1A Players 11:01 Picking a Staff 14:15 Travel & Rivalries in 1A 16:43 Swag and Fundraising 18:43 Rural Economic Drivers 22:44 Building a Culture of Winning Now 26:25 Scouting Other Teams 30:23 Connor's Coaching Journey 37:18 Coaches and their Spouses 38:43 This Upcoming Year 43:20 Coaching Hard is Caring 45:33 Entertainment in a Small Town 48:36 School Boundaries 49:35 Multi-Sport Athletes 52:12 Connor Outside Basketball 53:08 Message For Players and Parents 58:08 No Quit Mentality #basketball #podcast #basketballpodcast #makingtheteam #smalltownsports

    1hr 3min
  7. 11/11/2025

    From Local Legend to Pro – Parker Van Dyke’s Full Basketball Journey

    In this episode of Making the Team, Erik Soderborg sits down with Parker Van Dyke, former University of Utah basketball standout and current professional player, to break down his incredible journey through the game. From AAU tournaments and Utah high school hoops, to playing for the Utah Utes in the Pac-12, and now taking his game to the professional level, Parker shares the highlights, the grind, and the moments that made it all worth it. 🎯 Topics covered: Growing up in the Utah basketball scene Dominating High School Basketball Playing for the U of U and hitting clutch shots The transition to professional basketball Lessons learned from AAU to college to the pros Advice for young players trying to make the team If you’re a basketball fan, athlete, or someone chasing your dream — this episode is full of real talk, insights, and inspiration. 📌 Subscribe to Making the Team for more interviews with top athletes and coaches. Be sure to check follow Parker's journey on his Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/parkervandyke/ Please consider following us on social: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingTheTeamPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.instagram.com/making_the_team/ https://www.tiktok.com/@making.the.team ⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ 0:00 Intro Teaser 0:37 First Meeting Parker Story 1:45 The Importance of Intense Practice 3:44 When Basketball Became Life 6:07 Multi-Sport Athletes 8:12 Getting Over Perfectionism 11:02 AAU Successes 17:27 Parker's Shot Form 20:45 High School Moments 26:42 Daily Routine in High School 29:07 Effective Training 32:46 College Recruiting Experience 35:31 Advice to College Recruits 37:01 Why The University of Utah 39:58 High School Regrets 41:51 2 Years Off Basketball - Mission 43:45 Coach's Quote - Embrace Your Role 48:08 Taking the Weight Room to Another Level 52:06 College Daily Routine 53:52 College Conditioning 56:30 Importance of Diet 58:14 College Game Experience 1:00:01 Toughest Player Parker Played Against 1:01:38 Chad Chadrickson 1:02:56 The Dunk 1:05:23 UCLA Game Winner 1:11:04 Toughest Atmosphere to Play 1:12:34 What Parker Would Change About College 1:15:05 Professional Basketball: Overseas 1:22:29 European Basketball Money 1:24:55 G League: Austin Spurs 1:27:11 Game Day Traditions 1:29:54 Picking Number 5 1:31:48 Most Influential Basketball Movie 1:32:30 Favorite Shoe 1:32:55 85 Point Game 1:36:09 Parker on Winning 1:40:00 Blind Ranking/Guessing Basketballs 1:48:18 Life Outside Basketball 1:49:58 Favorite Pokemon 1:51:15 Staying Grounded 1:52:58 Parker's Future Hopes 1:54:00 Where to Play in the Offseason 1:56:13 Was It Worth It? #basketball #podcast #basketballpodcast #makingtheteam #parkervandyke

    1hr 60min

About

Conversations for high school basketball players and parents around the realities of what it takes to make a varsity basketball team. We interview coaches, players, and referees to give you an inside look behind the curtains of high school basketball.